Part of the ongoing U.S.–Australia dialogue on water, the event will bring together experts from both countries to expand existing thinking on water issues and explore cost-effective ways to reduce demand, better means of managing existing supplies and the implementation new technologies that save time and money — with a specific focus on Sydney and Los Angeles.

In the face of both growing demand and climate change, many areas of Australia and America, and many regions worldwide, are experiencing diminishing water resources. Today, more than 1 billion people do not have regular access to safe, clean drinking water.

Australia's extended periods of drought have led to advancements in water conservation, desalination, drought management and other water technologies — expertise that is directly relevant to Southern California. California is spearheading efforts to improve water supply, quality, conservation and recycling, and UCLA is actively engaged in a Grand Challenge initiative on urban sustainability that addresses water supply and quality.

WHEN: 9:30 a.m.–5:15 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 13

WHERE: Grand Horizon Ballroom at UCLA's Covel Commons (map)

WHO: Speakers will include high-ranking Australian officials, including the current and former ambassadors to the U.S.; California state officials and legislative staff; academic researchers; leaders of environmental and engineering firms; and representatives of nonprofit organizations. For a full list of speakers and speaker bios, visit http://ucla.in/1aaKt6R.

INFORMATION | REGISTRATION: Participants must register online prior to conference date ($30 general admission; $5 for students with a valid student ID, plus a small processing fee). For more information about the conference, contact Christine Larson of the International Institute at 310-825-9796 or clarson@international.ucla.edu.

ORGANIZERS | SPONSORS: The conference is organized by the UCLA International Institute, the UCLA Institute for the Environment and Sustainability, and the Australian Consulate-General in Los Angeles.

UCLA co-sponsors include the Burkle Center for International Relations, the Luskin School of Public Affairs, and the School of Law's Evan Frankel Environmental Law and Policy Program and Emmett Center on Climate Change and the Environment. Conference funding is also provided by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the Australian Trade Commission, Tourism Australia and Qantas Airlines as part of the 2014G'Day USA program.

PARKING: All-day parking is available for $12 in UCLA's Parking Structure 7.